Students wary of Trump

By Thunderword Staff

Donald Trump's ethics and morals are of concern to a number of Highline students on the eve of his inauguration tomorrow, but some say they feel his business background may be beneficial.

Trump is scheduled to take the oath of office on Friday, Jan. 20.

Jake Gibbs, a first-year student and political science major, said that from the fourth grade through now, the only primary recollection and experience of a president he has is of Barack Obama. He said he was never concerned about any ethical or character issues with Obama. But with President-elect Trump it's a different story.

"I want to say that Donald Trump [was] a great candidate and president-elect [who] represents and views all the people equally, but it's hard for me to say that after his comments about how Mexicans are thieves and rapists and his plans to ban Muslims," Gibbs said.

Mohammed Sessay, who just started school again after a few years off, said that Trump's election is a step backwards for America regarding equal rights for women and minorities.

"Maybe these allegations of sexual assault were lies just to sway the election, but in any case, you at least have to wonder what type of person even gets accused. That type of person is rarely a person who will lead a nation," Sessay said.

Aaron Smith, a student who aspires to be in the political arena, said that he's very upset with the results of the election. He said he couldn't believe how, when the Access Hollywood tape of Trump bragging about sexually assaulting women was released, Trump brushed it off and said that it was "locker room talk."

"Locker room talk? Anyone who isn't shocked or concerned by this disrespectful and abusive language should take a look at themselves and question their personal values," Smith said.

Elizabeth Sath said that she feels Trump doesn't know how to behave with people and that can be very damaging for America in the future.

Student Mariah Collier said she believes there are chances of protest after Trump's inauguration.

"Since I have seen a lot of hate on social media, I would not be surprised if there is a protest," she said.

"There are a lot of angry people who disagree with how he runs," Thuy Truong said.

Several students said that Trump should prioritize reforming the education system.

"Schools need to be funded properly because that is where change starts," said Micah L, who asked that his full name not be used.

Many students found Trump's lack of experience in politics disturbing, as well as how he frequently handles media stories regarding his use of Twitter.

"His priorities should be to remove his social media presence and focus more on America's problems and how to fix it rather than the news regarding him about Russia and other unimportant topics having to do with his presidency," said student Joseph Schacher.

Schacher went on to say that Trump will get rid of Obama Care without a real strong solution to it and is going to move the health care industry backward.

Another student agreed, "He needs to sit down and think for a while about what his healthcare plan will be after he takes away Obama Care," said a student who identified himself as James.

Trump isn't the man she wants representing America as a people and as a country, said student Maddie Johnsen.

Because there's so many people in Congress who don't like Trump and don't think he's fit for office, he will be impeached, said a student named April.

Five students said that they think it's possible he will actually be assassinated."It's going to get very scary to live in the United States, especially for minorities like myself." Said student Danise Pham.

Some students say they are concerned about the inauguration because of what it means for students with Deferred Action for Childhood Arrival status. This program gives undocumented children of illegal parents "protection to not get deported," said student Vianey Garcia.

Another student Rosa Garcia said that she believes Trump will use the DACA program lists to identify and deport illegals.

Not everyone is unhappy about President-elect Trump being sworn in.

"I'm excited because I think his background in business will help our economy," Russell Owen said.

However, he also said he is concerned with Trump's inexperience in politics.

Several students are intrigued by Trump's positions regarding the economy. Many were fascinated and in a sense, grateful for the president-elect's non-political background and financial success.

R'montay Walker a second-year student, said that he's anxious to see what Trump does for the economy.

"Outside of him claiming to build a wall, I'm looking forward to how he deals with the economic situation in America. That should be one of his main priorities," Walker said.

Many students agreed that Trump's financial background could prove to be beneficial to the American economy.

The inauguration is scheduled for this Friday, Jan. 20. The ceremony begins at 10 a.m. and will be roughly three hours long.